LEEP Instructions

A Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is a procedure to diagnosis and treat disorders of a women’s uterine cervix. A LEEP procedure is performed using a wire loop that is heated by an electric current to remove abnormal tissue in the cervix.

Anesthesia:

You may feel somewhat dizzy or sleepy after surgery due to the side effects of the anesthesia. General or Intravenous anesthesia agents can remain in your body for up to 24 hours. It is advised not to operate heavy machinery, drive a motor vehicle, consume alcohol, or make any important business decisions for the next 24 hours. Try to rest for the remainder of the day.

Postoperative care:

Light spotting and staining is expected for roughly 10 to 14 days after surgery. Use a sanitary pad during this time. DO NOT use tampons. If you experience heavy bleeding with large clots, call your doctors office. You may also experience a dark colored discharge for several days. The dark discharge is from the medicines and/or solutions that were applied to your cervix to help heal it.

Pain:

After a LEEP procedure patients may experience some discomfort such as cramping and/or pain. This is normal. Your doctor may recommend non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) such as Ibuprofen to manage your pain. However your doctor may prescribe a pain medication, based on the situation, which should be taken as directed.

Activity:

Patients usually return to their normal activity within a day or two. Refrain from vigorous physical activity for 7 to 10 days. This includes heavy lifting and aerobic exercising. Introduce nothing into the vagina (no sex, no douching, and no tampons) until after your follow up examination, which is roughly two to three weeks after your surgery.

Bathing/Swimming:

You may shower when you feel comfortable. It is recommended that you do not swim or soak in a hot tub or bathtub for two to four weeks following your surgery. This is to prevent anything from entering the vagina, which may cause infection.